tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75751897008559583242024-03-13T19:59:51.758+00:00A Felt DesireAn experiment in blogging, feltmaking, and other creative crafts.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-90525294236391565972021-03-16T15:14:00.002+00:002021-05-07T12:25:36.543+01:00Rope Bowls<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnsYntypa9O_WOWV-LoTRNEpLpvYp4PmPyPckiJPyTdBZBr-db5bKh8k5MClgsYHZV-pqXd9a90uNEia8904bCf7vogZjPkKPkotbti_4M4yuL2mZNDz3ypV30X8qmP4rjSy-lqzkedh_o/s1960/IMG_1220.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1099" data-original-width="1960" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnsYntypa9O_WOWV-LoTRNEpLpvYp4PmPyPckiJPyTdBZBr-db5bKh8k5MClgsYHZV-pqXd9a90uNEia8904bCf7vogZjPkKPkotbti_4M4yuL2mZNDz3ypV30X8qmP4rjSy-lqzkedh_o/w640-h358/IMG_1220.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div>This is my latest fad - rope bowls made with cotton clothes line or pulley rope, using a zig-zag stitch on the sewing machine. These are satisfying and strangely soothing to make as the coils are added and all you have to concentrate on is keeping the zig-zag stitch on the right line. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDn-n1avOvOonrwJL4NLIyKJRc3FeeBCad0rWaCBZ_lmyOKMXJ_xUPKz-ZZOGdE6Kuy6HaEK5GHIUr5UCShXjdQwxlBxlpKcMGouzClE_z_cv-BnO9oenXJnhNuFAy5u4lvk8ZeKgrfhr3/s2016/IMG_1119.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDn-n1avOvOonrwJL4NLIyKJRc3FeeBCad0rWaCBZ_lmyOKMXJ_xUPKz-ZZOGdE6Kuy6HaEK5GHIUr5UCShXjdQwxlBxlpKcMGouzClE_z_cv-BnO9oenXJnhNuFAy5u4lvk8ZeKgrfhr3/w480-h640/IMG_1119.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div>They can be round, oval, shallow or deep. They can have handles, and the rope end can be finished off in a number of ways. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfEEBA_7Q6oU49jIOgm1D2TdH8xLikGLOW4ZTOp46BVGUXj3vkn8K9ZryZo4C7PSU2j1TOP6Vw6dL2vhOUeo9mP48TwjrgIuIzl_EjxahMIBSq51GxVP2vbveFPj1SCwE6cwHuFMbE2bU9/s2016/IMG_1118.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfEEBA_7Q6oU49jIOgm1D2TdH8xLikGLOW4ZTOp46BVGUXj3vkn8K9ZryZo4C7PSU2j1TOP6Vw6dL2vhOUeo9mP48TwjrgIuIzl_EjxahMIBSq51GxVP2vbveFPj1SCwE6cwHuFMbE2bU9/w640-h480/IMG_1118.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div>One way to add colour is to use different coloured thread. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkuQcplcSnpOyY4jehZvH-QQ3gv4LmU7GstX6k6bNXXC0vVMyVXy_FQ7DO4YJpPYXq7s6HJ1creOH1vTuLMJjd5KWI677Fyr6Wcdkn-kM04peu05MF2uMlRHWzTMA3I01amv-8TVF5aC5t/s2016/IMG_1117.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkuQcplcSnpOyY4jehZvH-QQ3gv4LmU7GstX6k6bNXXC0vVMyVXy_FQ7DO4YJpPYXq7s6HJ1creOH1vTuLMJjd5KWI677Fyr6Wcdkn-kM04peu05MF2uMlRHWzTMA3I01amv-8TVF5aC5t/w640-h480/IMG_1117.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Another way is to dye the rope. Here I experimented with making a dye with daffodil flowers, and dip-dying the rope. <br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYYirPCRFVFswqtN25I2v1qTuOualEhDI6X6NJrp-KSv6imWVAwKExVRcdW-cBCWZj3auE_2yPuYLFy7l5wnT3HYucHPWtT-FvD4pIKAuqZqBjhmPvz76O2htDN32l0uOHg9Gk8_yPBYGA/s2048/unnamed+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYYirPCRFVFswqtN25I2v1qTuOualEhDI6X6NJrp-KSv6imWVAwKExVRcdW-cBCWZj3auE_2yPuYLFy7l5wnT3HYucHPWtT-FvD4pIKAuqZqBjhmPvz76O2htDN32l0uOHg9Gk8_yPBYGA/w480-h640/unnamed+%25281%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_KSLeeBNP-bzaYRGEYKhMVy8oMInrqUpM1UyPXcx9ZE6p6KroyqLsgZCxL1JYX9VkcM632_WYkTB5Jdpd6nUlwp0VZUaMiqFfK88J-W7cTOyp5H7vXiBx-3rr_uvkn4OmvYjEmj7_Ijcd/s2048/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1492" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_KSLeeBNP-bzaYRGEYKhMVy8oMInrqUpM1UyPXcx9ZE6p6KroyqLsgZCxL1JYX9VkcM632_WYkTB5Jdpd6nUlwp0VZUaMiqFfK88J-W7cTOyp5H7vXiBx-3rr_uvkn4OmvYjEmj7_Ijcd/w466-h640/unnamed.jpg" width="466" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">They are surprisingly strong and hold their shape well, and they make nice gifts with a few home made biscuits or toiletries. </span></div><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-48089584664894293452017-11-05T22:02:00.000+00:002017-11-05T22:06:40.566+00:00Bunnies for babies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have been making some simple little cuddly bunnies to give as gifts for new babies. One is for my own granddaughter of course! </div>
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The pattern, named Bunny Lovey, is available free at <a href="http://unlikelynest.blogspot.co.uk/2016/03/the-bunny-lovey-free-sewing-pattern.html?m=1" target="_blank">this blog site</a>, provided you just use it for personal use. You just have to sign up to the mailing list, and then you receive a link to the pattern pdf. </div>
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I bought some soft plush fabric, and used small amounts of brightly coloured cotton from my stash for the ear linings. Only the head and tail are stuffed. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVlfNFGOHUuTzCMvuWxS5V32sDP54b3eY1GTkUUhO8_UlAcH_3CmzwThc74V0kUeaj3tj5SPWEaSJ_DR8yBQqRA0Zw6JfiUR0Ef9mI10wNfAmKrIO69a-C-2Kogj9xNGqMUP1SPcJAkaXY/s1600/IMG_2249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1483" data-original-width="1600" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVlfNFGOHUuTzCMvuWxS5V32sDP54b3eY1GTkUUhO8_UlAcH_3CmzwThc74V0kUeaj3tj5SPWEaSJ_DR8yBQqRA0Zw6JfiUR0Ef9mI10wNfAmKrIO69a-C-2Kogj9xNGqMUP1SPcJAkaXY/s400/IMG_2249.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-4166279591817625992017-10-03T23:33:00.000+01:002017-10-03T23:37:08.391+01:00Some like it hot.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ01DJtWJWQ7tcMr2AoQf21LfBjmMD-PtIIowvDeUMsEwGNGd5IqeLGKcxGkP2ZDfqw4titRHNzar6YTnTu9ANJE221Y6euJ7crpaWjLjqBrkgEslRMVMnt8nWK8r8EPBHKUVnvypGavJV/s1600/IMG_1989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1363" data-original-width="1600" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ01DJtWJWQ7tcMr2AoQf21LfBjmMD-PtIIowvDeUMsEwGNGd5IqeLGKcxGkP2ZDfqw4titRHNzar6YTnTu9ANJE221Y6euJ7crpaWjLjqBrkgEslRMVMnt8nWK8r8EPBHKUVnvypGavJV/s400/IMG_1989.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO_tYuQ3Cn1oZnjg2CqUHFaRzd0rcdDaQGBKkMgBrASL2BuNvv2RomisnwQ8XF0lSqMmjeWXkSOuSX3tK6AkML7l4SqtL49XYpnJ671bjBoOm35vX-dJ6x22-vxiLTZHMZ-D1RMvKjqsSG/s1600/IMG_1988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1525" data-original-width="1600" height="381" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO_tYuQ3Cn1oZnjg2CqUHFaRzd0rcdDaQGBKkMgBrASL2BuNvv2RomisnwQ8XF0lSqMmjeWXkSOuSX3tK6AkML7l4SqtL49XYpnJ671bjBoOm35vX-dJ6x22-vxiLTZHMZ-D1RMvKjqsSG/s400/IMG_1988.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">A tea-loving friend asked me to make her a capacious tea cosy to accommodate a large teapot. </span></div>
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I used 3 layers of merino wool around a resist and decorated the final layer with green, shading through grey to lavender at the top. Before felting I added an elongated tuft of roving to the pointed top which I rolled into a rope. The final decoration was a couple of white silk hankies laid on top to give a cloud-like effect, and some shine. </div>
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The whole was well felted and fulled - a tea cosy needs to be hard wearing. Before drying I coiled the rope at the top. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVBLUky9ghRWB6kFLLAeDaprqemGwOEAhZIEGxfywjBh6pzHHj9tBWhjfxwUEYYFlfYQm_NIzFpwSh2OqN6szGYRS7gkjjseSyd0WayaBcsU7SYtY565Lk183PJYYqWXlsswrpB4GZHo0h/s1600/IMG_1990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVBLUky9ghRWB6kFLLAeDaprqemGwOEAhZIEGxfywjBh6pzHHj9tBWhjfxwUEYYFlfYQm_NIzFpwSh2OqN6szGYRS7gkjjseSyd0WayaBcsU7SYtY565Lk183PJYYqWXlsswrpB4GZHo0h/s400/IMG_1990.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I decided to hand embroider some simple seedheads on each side. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3rq6Fr4U2IX7EXrNklf8M4P24wjpFlFBeB_lHzWltKdVlxnqfOAM-UqFgQMy8nlidbGY0A2GjqL35tiPBKAcD16SXC2BSOzUqS2t5_y3JFv1jbRKu5jC7biEtujby3VkDW3QE-ZHqWgIa/s1600/IMG_1987.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="983" data-original-width="1600" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3rq6Fr4U2IX7EXrNklf8M4P24wjpFlFBeB_lHzWltKdVlxnqfOAM-UqFgQMy8nlidbGY0A2GjqL35tiPBKAcD16SXC2BSOzUqS2t5_y3JFv1jbRKu5jC7biEtujby3VkDW3QE-ZHqWgIa/s400/IMG_1987.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I neatened the bottom edge by curling it in and hand stitching. I then added a cotton lining. Choosing a brownish colour was deliberate, as it does not show the tea stains! </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-2387551084957683732017-05-09T22:40:00.003+01:002017-05-15T15:45:47.812+01:00Yet more cards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYJHDucpSCTgRQqsWEgOOrueraf-4aiVog0-rrp7XXj_mVyCet2GHt86CVrxJUgumV4uCmpuo-pRRJFyo5mNxc7L7NaNXGncI47SFFrJofu3QDhYsVwIbAzcPLEYtLJY0WzXzwL_f3ECa8/s1600/IMG_0999.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYJHDucpSCTgRQqsWEgOOrueraf-4aiVog0-rrp7XXj_mVyCet2GHt86CVrxJUgumV4uCmpuo-pRRJFyo5mNxc7L7NaNXGncI47SFFrJofu3QDhYsVwIbAzcPLEYtLJY0WzXzwL_f3ECa8/s400/IMG_0999.JPG" width="283" /></a></div>
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I wanted to make some more cards, and try out a new method! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii9ItnUybLOgXc7wKhpAm2klwPwEfocUlxilpQpOz-aCjteVoAVmIw-7CuFS_y-GcI7MAz8DWLNLVWwPFohbFpO7TfLwKfXBQqmWoNjk3rs4qEHZ-iPTkrVH_yZShi-Ov8q2YXGM7zL0ZX/s1600/IMG_1002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii9ItnUybLOgXc7wKhpAm2klwPwEfocUlxilpQpOz-aCjteVoAVmIw-7CuFS_y-GcI7MAz8DWLNLVWwPFohbFpO7TfLwKfXBQqmWoNjk3rs4qEHZ-iPTkrVH_yZShi-Ov8q2YXGM7zL0ZX/s400/IMG_1002.JPG" width="286" /></a></div>
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These were made after a trip to the beautiful White Peak area of Derbyshire, and are slightly inspired by the distinctive stone walls there. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXO9AJLYqQI9JEZV88xajaxSlk4uWi5kMG_sVgucIvLF8pcvF3JPF_CMx61YQCY-2JiFJZ8fXu7oY_lYiwnuH2b5TB82TW7XgA7xDWDv0V_iYtEm6Dy0S2u6Dv8YiJk4BmoeYG7VHfQdka/s1600/IMG_0973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXO9AJLYqQI9JEZV88xajaxSlk4uWi5kMG_sVgucIvLF8pcvF3JPF_CMx61YQCY-2JiFJZ8fXu7oY_lYiwnuH2b5TB82TW7XgA7xDWDv0V_iYtEm6Dy0S2u6Dv8YiJk4BmoeYG7VHfQdka/s320/IMG_0973.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I made the felt, which is very fine and delicate in a new (to me) way, suggested in Sheila Smith's book "<a href="http://bookshop.blackwell.co.uk/bookshop/product/9781849941501?gclid=CjsKDwjw0cXIBRCxjqnE3K3sHhIkAL1LezRnoljGCTcnO2ZzJ3RLRg5YhfiZ1ZzGIMAmoEsKLu3yGgLEx_D_BwE">Embellish, Stitch, Felt</a>" I laid out a piece of water soluble fabric, and then built up overlapping but very fine layers of merino wool, bits of organza, dyed scrim, sari silk, coloured silk. I then put another piece of water soluble fabric on top to make a sandwich, and pinned it all together to hold it. I then used the embellisher machine to needle felt it all over. </div>
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I then washed away the fabric, lightly squeezing the felt to wet- felt it just a little. </div>
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After drying, I pinned another layer of w-s fabric on top, on which I drew out the design I wanted to free motion machine stitch - wall shapes, clouds, grasses. After completing that, I disolved the w-s fabric away again, and, once dry, was left with this:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWBjF0P6ZcLgNajHv5KbqfuJLu36T3G2kZkhZ45xPor84e0ufNohEfR6JYrNHWAVy1Ctx_SQ3T5cZzQJxRek62g45wTS9-7xKAeJ_pYI8LYwaNEukc8ll1RcVX3GHcLRj9dx3XiDynnyh/s1600/IMG_1003+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWBjF0P6ZcLgNajHv5KbqfuJLu36T3G2kZkhZ45xPor84e0ufNohEfR6JYrNHWAVy1Ctx_SQ3T5cZzQJxRek62g45wTS9-7xKAeJ_pYI8LYwaNEukc8ll1RcVX3GHcLRj9dx3XiDynnyh/s640/IMG_1003+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I then cut sections off, on an irregular manner, and teased out the edges a bit with a needle to soften the cut edge. Then I added a few french knots and stuck them onto blank cards. </div>
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The felt is very fine - transparent in places. Here's a closeup:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYyF3lZ49IXf4sUyBT_DSKmbiYieaVUKhhuRHBUpuOpJcTJk7tpwnqlAAhnoC85NUAI5u6ZwFfouf9vquWKgVIK3X86tWIduKV2PgnM9MSe3qW6cqEkC9lY90J07PBYjUfjZUllkgbgyFP/s1600/IMG_1004+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYyF3lZ49IXf4sUyBT_DSKmbiYieaVUKhhuRHBUpuOpJcTJk7tpwnqlAAhnoC85NUAI5u6ZwFfouf9vquWKgVIK3X86tWIduKV2PgnM9MSe3qW6cqEkC9lY90J07PBYjUfjZUllkgbgyFP/s640/IMG_1004+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Update a week later...</div>
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After making two cards with this piece, I decided not to cut off more strips for cards, but to mount the rest onto a small canvas. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihUaW5ayVGkfIEBkBsBAi0u_BmN23_6RCMmA2PUgx8m-aGMSG6qjxvat8hQjhJveS-KreqEO8GhOSzu5puiyV11yR7-RS4IMTQFSpsa6oIwgii6qRHZDoObVCO3725chq2b27Rwjk8x-bA/s1600/IMG_1038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihUaW5ayVGkfIEBkBsBAi0u_BmN23_6RCMmA2PUgx8m-aGMSG6qjxvat8hQjhJveS-KreqEO8GhOSzu5puiyV11yR7-RS4IMTQFSpsa6oIwgii6qRHZDoObVCO3725chq2b27Rwjk8x-bA/s400/IMG_1038.JPG" width="397" /></a></div>
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I painted the top and bottom of the canvas with acrylic paint mixed with pva glue, and pushed some muslin into the paint mixture to add some texture. The felt was wrapped round the canvas and glued. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4gAOzWPR8y7YP1Za9lKwehlQzzcemaj7GLwq9nnPn2FP6YatdSdBusvVmJZARtPCiQzshEUUUd8P7klGjHW-mrmccf2-uK5iSWQIhd4vg1buBWmq4m17aElynRapbjXJwj9tce0dAMS6/s1600/IMG_1039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4gAOzWPR8y7YP1Za9lKwehlQzzcemaj7GLwq9nnPn2FP6YatdSdBusvVmJZARtPCiQzshEUUUd8P7klGjHW-mrmccf2-uK5iSWQIhd4vg1buBWmq4m17aElynRapbjXJwj9tce0dAMS6/s400/IMG_1039.JPG" width="297" /></a></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-10399246245334786882017-04-20T23:38:00.000+01:002017-04-20T23:47:48.962+01:00An Easter Project<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This year I lead a small women's Lent study group in our village, and we were asked by our Vicar to create a reflective piece on one of the Stations of the Cross, which would be displayed over the Easter weekend. Other groups in the community also contributed. We were given the subject of Tears, thinking of when Jesus met the weeping women of Jerusalem. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHmYPCEbMpu2iWkD3LBVEEtLQsByvKdcEzyn_JWdcshl0-N7r7UqyXXd7Ce5obqq_5QAwW-L4d5XP7C33EfLFmeuMtLF8NPPy9ZFIzphY2EnvYQ2w_C9SB5bedlVQbSaahyypn1iqf2vU/s1600/IMG_0557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHmYPCEbMpu2iWkD3LBVEEtLQsByvKdcEzyn_JWdcshl0-N7r7UqyXXd7Ce5obqq_5QAwW-L4d5XP7C33EfLFmeuMtLF8NPPy9ZFIzphY2EnvYQ2w_C9SB5bedlVQbSaahyypn1iqf2vU/s400/IMG_0557.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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I made some cream merino felt, decorated on both sides with vertical trails of silk, and some bamboo. You can see the picture I used as inspiration, which was from a booklet called <a href="https://www.cpo.org.uk/product.aspx?prod=Z3489BT&cat=3631">"One Friday"</a> illustrated by Jenny Hawke. </div>
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I cut out tear drop shaped from this felt. </div>
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Each member of the group took a tear, and embellished it very simply with something significant to them - maybe just a few running stitches. While doing this they thought about what has brought them to tears. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYQ7fcpaomBQpE2OAx70Z0g69B6cIIut_0AS71cISqPv5XnWV58ZQWIjj1Fxs2inF_vs7SIUeuy4_HcCNq1SvOxFtpclv-fz2PisWKZJY-ewNRiUn3MdWzW1fe8PK_K5fQkjWZe-KO3fq/s1600/IMG_0866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYQ7fcpaomBQpE2OAx70Z0g69B6cIIut_0AS71cISqPv5XnWV58ZQWIjj1Fxs2inF_vs7SIUeuy4_HcCNq1SvOxFtpclv-fz2PisWKZJY-ewNRiUn3MdWzW1fe8PK_K5fQkjWZe-KO3fq/s400/IMG_0866.JPG" width="262" /></a></div>
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This tear has thorns stitched to it. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYOlpHf7xLxGTNcAA2nLZz18X0cA_Vr2fhjeikneSK5ySNhxv8suRW5aELKQ-3y87rChmwzVRH5ccI9HoIpGSkkv8OENVJYU_eCPpW2wngKqAKbYf8w9CaRMXtz3tQtC4QhjxOJGHV8SpW/s1600/IMG_0867.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYOlpHf7xLxGTNcAA2nLZz18X0cA_Vr2fhjeikneSK5ySNhxv8suRW5aELKQ-3y87rChmwzVRH5ccI9HoIpGSkkv8OENVJYU_eCPpW2wngKqAKbYf8w9CaRMXtz3tQtC4QhjxOJGHV8SpW/s400/IMG_0867.JPG" width="238" /></a></div>
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And this one has some nails. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnYPO8W_Xg95NC3eK3dAmNTPSa63UkjfPPaGGa1c0R0XMp0sIpj0P8R0vKvLMMVOMiJH8iiM70htE0wHZaNEOHyjfisLdWtgMBQ_VDKIg15EVzb00jxQpTUZ3xTenRcPfewBqJ1pZWsc7/s1600/IMG_0865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnYPO8W_Xg95NC3eK3dAmNTPSa63UkjfPPaGGa1c0R0XMp0sIpj0P8R0vKvLMMVOMiJH8iiM70htE0wHZaNEOHyjfisLdWtgMBQ_VDKIg15EVzb00jxQpTUZ3xTenRcPfewBqJ1pZWsc7/s400/IMG_0865.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8bGLmdiz_3S03gRt4gaW8LgmWrN6wwOuzOlhW-thxSObLfX_CTxn6mNuPJtFTi4hfhG5GmTgGO-FNaGbrmbGZFRxJlMOJVhQFe9IeEAa-HHzip8dyk5nPbeaJGBuVwn5io5UAR2mwwUCG/s1600/IMG_0662.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8bGLmdiz_3S03gRt4gaW8LgmWrN6wwOuzOlhW-thxSObLfX_CTxn6mNuPJtFTi4hfhG5GmTgGO-FNaGbrmbGZFRxJlMOJVhQFe9IeEAa-HHzip8dyk5nPbeaJGBuVwn5io5UAR2mwwUCG/s400/IMG_0662.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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The tears were suspended by fine silver threads from branches of curly hazel, representing a tree. They fell towards a "stream" of blue fabric and organza, with pebbles (some felted) and glass stones. In the stream was a text - see below for explanation. This was made with free motion machine stitching in black and silver thread on blue ribbon. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqjPVnCPCzF8Bjox86zyxbO0Dzs34MLVLFBx7n7PtDc7xdJ_RfHAAay9f2l6TLejxbpoM5DKRvDtbUxXZ5LGT-at-vja2K8jRQ3iL8Evfu0UOrlil5dE_S77Il42m0t4TSfsM9SZo8r6k1/s1600/IMG_0661.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqjPVnCPCzF8Bjox86zyxbO0Dzs34MLVLFBx7n7PtDc7xdJ_RfHAAay9f2l6TLejxbpoM5DKRvDtbUxXZ5LGT-at-vja2K8jRQ3iL8Evfu0UOrlil5dE_S77Il42m0t4TSfsM9SZo8r6k1/s400/IMG_0661.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I sandwiched the ribbon between water soluble fabric while doing the stitching to hold it firmly. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ3n3fg-rdpNhy4C795HGo9Z10pdusWC0hQf-97c1QuSV_zsbbDN_90AhCWgzZjyfw8ULf7ZVbVsHJrS9toJKTtUYZbXd-aKeA7pckgQabNLIXnYtlVu_Qlf0StHVuNWUaraUk71uZD5iH/s1600/Capture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ3n3fg-rdpNhy4C795HGo9Z10pdusWC0hQf-97c1QuSV_zsbbDN_90AhCWgzZjyfw8ULf7ZVbVsHJrS9toJKTtUYZbXd-aKeA7pckgQabNLIXnYtlVu_Qlf0StHVuNWUaraUk71uZD5iH/s640/Capture.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I felt it was meaningful to involve each woman in our group by pesonalising the tears in their own way. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-2153173891865444082016-12-08T09:19:00.002+00:002016-12-09T12:23:23.425+00:00Poinsettia Christmas Wreath<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiEP1iCkrGuvPycp5UeFVRQL1RTDs171DVEvXdYKhPGMw6QDdfpGVPb_7Azqi3wzcBQn7klVaZaOT5qV-mYGz8fFfa0G4PtZGAADDkZ10IQLVed1GEMgNeYIroO0VHRcUvOAfKcrIgbAgo/s1600/IMG_1015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiEP1iCkrGuvPycp5UeFVRQL1RTDs171DVEvXdYKhPGMw6QDdfpGVPb_7Azqi3wzcBQn7klVaZaOT5qV-mYGz8fFfa0G4PtZGAADDkZ10IQLVed1GEMgNeYIroO0VHRcUvOAfKcrIgbAgo/s400/IMG_1015.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I wanted to make a large Christmas wreath for our front door. I had a twisted twig circle which I have used as a base in previous years to wire fresh holly to, lacerating my fingers in the process. I gave it a spray of sparkly varnish. </div>
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I found a great and easy tutorial from <a href="https://permutationsinfiber.wordpress.com/2010/12/04/felted-poinsettias-tutorial/">Ruth at Permutations in Fiber</a> . Using green and red merino, and some wisps of silk, that worked very well. I used metallic red thread on the red petals (bracts?). I had no yellow beads, so I needle felted a splodge of yellow in the centres, and added silver beads which gives it a zing. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivhVbOzHDlH-4sqeJbk_PYgrVB9_MGFmmtt14b_oIngK58-1jYDYLwXA1t9HrORjSQs-dz6sl3Fki4uJx3-hBgQ9XNxM3_qq6fvQHUGW2kTu9j_ktWe3DKbK0vzTIym0Kpv75c1UV86cau/s1600/IMG_1017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivhVbOzHDlH-4sqeJbk_PYgrVB9_MGFmmtt14b_oIngK58-1jYDYLwXA1t9HrORjSQs-dz6sl3Fki4uJx3-hBgQ9XNxM3_qq6fvQHUGW2kTu9j_ktWe3DKbK0vzTIym0Kpv75c1UV86cau/s400/IMG_1017.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I glue-gunned them onto the twig base, and then gave the flowers a spray with waterproofing protector, as they will be outside. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn4PjkWjTjlCp5hmQuZofJj2g7CjHVLZKj7FN2rCfMv7BYXvN_snBXKm-WbAcUeLP24L2dYGYklNfpy4hpdYse_NNlBBU74wOytGyRmREYHdOZ26xb9ulposlb9A3RTwcCl-OgYc6KfSu4/s1600/IMG_1016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn4PjkWjTjlCp5hmQuZofJj2g7CjHVLZKj7FN2rCfMv7BYXvN_snBXKm-WbAcUeLP24L2dYGYklNfpy4hpdYse_NNlBBU74wOytGyRmREYHdOZ26xb9ulposlb9A3RTwcCl-OgYc6KfSu4/s400/IMG_1016.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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MERRY CHRISTMAS! </div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3Suffolk, UK52.1872472 0.9707800999999562951.5649582 -0.32011340000004362 52.809536200000004 2.2616735999999564tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-16505639355356880302016-10-30T23:32:00.000+00:002016-10-31T09:00:58.256+00:00A few more quick cards....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY3YKmXdJ245RT8gXJMCfv92R_Q7Ja9JAykp0hF8nb0jU1l6YUydXB_-QHokLGjNtm_wgMVNnOBayRDHSL5SjqtGmcyNu_7tOc9GbSnSCp8R_zM1mleP3vsY8ESTvKreL0eiLWY6L5ZoOf/s1600/IMG_0893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY3YKmXdJ245RT8gXJMCfv92R_Q7Ja9JAykp0hF8nb0jU1l6YUydXB_-QHokLGjNtm_wgMVNnOBayRDHSL5SjqtGmcyNu_7tOc9GbSnSCp8R_zM1mleP3vsY8ESTvKreL0eiLWY6L5ZoOf/s400/IMG_0893.JPG" width="250" /></a></div>
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I used the embellisher machine to make some colourful, rather moody backgrounds, using mainly merino wool, with some silk and a little sparkly fibre.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0_HiucnTauQPTIXH6XghWjV3xyLF1ONmrDe0Z1r28xtio9CMisCj7mmsXYHO0zn0rMRSRTr0HzDSx2gU6bx5BSq5Lpl_TalMvHohovdDu0rh4BeyuAZp0-ZkLAoEYjebX1Ud46NahObVm/s1600/IMG_0895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0_HiucnTauQPTIXH6XghWjV3xyLF1ONmrDe0Z1r28xtio9CMisCj7mmsXYHO0zn0rMRSRTr0HzDSx2gU6bx5BSq5Lpl_TalMvHohovdDu0rh4BeyuAZp0-ZkLAoEYjebX1Ud46NahObVm/s400/IMG_0895.JPG" width="290" /></a></div>
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Using black thread, I machine sketched some seed heads, without trying to be too exact.<br />
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I added a few small beads as stars, for just a touch more textural interest.<br />
<span style="text-align: center;">Then I used the glue gun to stick them on to the cards. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTFyDnMjEg1wjE1hLgyWtcYxTiCdjQiDQMBoQbkApnLSFxwIJS3iHOT2Lfx2SBgSCx3LWjOlFnCCmyKes6xwohdB2yXsC7aMs1DpbDqcI2dlxnREKIhICIZ9QoVN3OBpJnIDxTe9AQ4fkf/s1600/IMG_0896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTFyDnMjEg1wjE1hLgyWtcYxTiCdjQiDQMBoQbkApnLSFxwIJS3iHOT2Lfx2SBgSCx3LWjOlFnCCmyKes6xwohdB2yXsC7aMs1DpbDqcI2dlxnREKIhICIZ9QoVN3OBpJnIDxTe9AQ4fkf/s400/IMG_0896.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-23453288246600353722016-09-20T12:42:00.000+01:002016-09-20T12:56:41.020+01:00A fancy bag<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzGyzL1YBwEOBCPH1KjsVUwbIXoZQVUPETvQJNnELEQcy-3k6NLX4VjpTvb6cq9sZsfantrf6txROqSB1xzZqgyuxES84_tEnO3wBkEZ5yTyuNpkjFHfJlKXS3E_CLgQeb_mJZwGNOQQ3R/s1600/IMG_0270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzGyzL1YBwEOBCPH1KjsVUwbIXoZQVUPETvQJNnELEQcy-3k6NLX4VjpTvb6cq9sZsfantrf6txROqSB1xzZqgyuxES84_tEnO3wBkEZ5yTyuNpkjFHfJlKXS3E_CLgQeb_mJZwGNOQQ3R/s400/IMG_0270.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I made this bag from some old rather matted merino dyed in shades of pink/lavender/blue. The decoration was bits of an old indian silk scarf, some dyed scrim, and a few curly locks. I laid the decoration on the resist first, and built up the bag inside out, in the manner of the wonderful <a href="http://woollove-functional-fiberart.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Heather Woollove</a>. Here is a detail:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5JolYago773MKvJWo8rHTaanhRP5sIJ3-LySOorfzmL1kRhtlVUOe3Rx2YZ1XenFUA2wiEx9bzWeo_hmZDTkPrn87ArWbzKFhjP3nj682G4mee64mUMRL79RnX5yLsduvIJJkD1Ix_Uv6/s1600/IMG_0269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5JolYago773MKvJWo8rHTaanhRP5sIJ3-LySOorfzmL1kRhtlVUOe3Rx2YZ1XenFUA2wiEx9bzWeo_hmZDTkPrn87ArWbzKFhjP3nj682G4mee64mUMRL79RnX5yLsduvIJJkD1Ix_Uv6/s400/IMG_0269.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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I will definitely use this method again! Partly because you forget about the design once it's hidden, and it is so exciting to rediscover it when you finally cut out the resist. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfQXvRh1R4yp12EmCUslnmRiX6cjXR_EImfo4Yoe_eOw80OX938EQQy9M7ouM2bVQHbsXpgODhvz4nfM2h1Ga_l6ezTWUwRfTiXfD9fafSNC2C3HfWm21hP0lJd7G3j7zufd6tvQ7xxQVz/s1600/IMG_0268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfQXvRh1R4yp12EmCUslnmRiX6cjXR_EImfo4Yoe_eOw80OX938EQQy9M7ouM2bVQHbsXpgODhvz4nfM2h1Ga_l6ezTWUwRfTiXfD9fafSNC2C3HfWm21hP0lJd7G3j7zufd6tvQ7xxQVz/s400/IMG_0268.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here is the back, which I possibly prefer - (note to self - less is more!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgMOiYjIf8fZEpLLYSk_P-zmglmNRnvfg0CfcLr5qMlqFsBWlt7DwR3zPka-35RCu-4qdjd6szE8UNUjt7t-to_KKhtYCdQxOMrVz4FbVj9vf6ZSTbaAlQGOkoX7t8wyjFKpVzaoFL8th1/s1600/IMG_0271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgMOiYjIf8fZEpLLYSk_P-zmglmNRnvfg0CfcLr5qMlqFsBWlt7DwR3zPka-35RCu-4qdjd6szE8UNUjt7t-to_KKhtYCdQxOMrVz4FbVj9vf6ZSTbaAlQGOkoX7t8wyjFKpVzaoFL8th1/s400/IMG_0271.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Inside the bag I incorporated two pockets using more silk and wool, These were added on the outside as I was making it. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp9_Ko50Ux1fhW_dru_wX2_oysvR6wZQUq-yneFZEV7toEfxTsCokkFbrudUJBSxIFlxqir6Fmfg6hp_IVyR8RtsdYTKrXAd5S8vNVg_prp8WvDyPtp1NxcDjVYRC6ZxMXIJDt3Y76ozUv/s1600/IMG_0277.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp9_Ko50Ux1fhW_dru_wX2_oysvR6wZQUq-yneFZEV7toEfxTsCokkFbrudUJBSxIFlxqir6Fmfg6hp_IVyR8RtsdYTKrXAd5S8vNVg_prp8WvDyPtp1NxcDjVYRC6ZxMXIJDt3Y76ozUv/s400/IMG_0277.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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In some ways this is not really my style - too fussy, but I enjoyed making it and learned something. One for my present drawer! </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-24253432338515953292016-07-11T17:28:00.000+01:002016-07-11T17:28:57.298+01:00Couple of cushions My husband wanted a cushion for a new leather and tweed armchair. I didn't want it to be too feminine, so I chose a large plaid design, to echo the plaid tweed on the back of the chair. I simply but some pale grey and green shading on the surface of the cream wool, and them lay on some strands of mohair wool to create the lines, before wet felting.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpJpN2aY3QrfDakjjQs8kL13sqZHw1E4SHBkhyphenhyphenRMDY8eHlQ7aLZM9l4dfGLJJ-dAbG3axFwxsd73nonbV2fo_M4I5oGq-5CI8yWu7qqseEzynltTiyHCG9Ou08pQ8770faB-IrJrWgLju3/s1600/DSC04808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="373" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpJpN2aY3QrfDakjjQs8kL13sqZHw1E4SHBkhyphenhyphenRMDY8eHlQ7aLZM9l4dfGLJJ-dAbG3axFwxsd73nonbV2fo_M4I5oGq-5CI8yWu7qqseEzynltTiyHCG9Ou08pQ8770faB-IrJrWgLju3/s400/DSC04808.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I had made a piece if experimental felt, using circular resists with holes in the middle, between the brown layers of wool and the top pale yellow shade. Snipping around the outer line of the circles created fluted raised flower like shapes, revealing the brown layer underneath. I needle felted some circles of dark reddish wool into the centres to create the look. </div>
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The piece wasn't really big enough for a cushion, so I stitched it onto some dark red faux suede fabric. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsbiRluLi2kvWN6eFP_vXsURYFc8FNPlcWj5kxqNk_V0FcvbZ1bblsL7PmmPg1i0KOL535mwDa63Tclh9EAhtFViDJyz34tXEDsByQ2HOX0bfouoyqqSdeLKCfIe6RQnMXFCY9TfqkOn8R/s1600/DSC04809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="387" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsbiRluLi2kvWN6eFP_vXsURYFc8FNPlcWj5kxqNk_V0FcvbZ1bblsL7PmmPg1i0KOL535mwDa63Tclh9EAhtFViDJyz34tXEDsByQ2HOX0bfouoyqqSdeLKCfIe6RQnMXFCY9TfqkOn8R/s400/DSC04809.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-53850530639728932232016-07-08T00:13:00.000+01:002016-07-08T00:16:45.024+01:00A new toy...I cannot resist gadgets. I have treated myself to an embellisher machine. (It's the <a href="http://janome.co.uk/janome_products/model-fm725/" target="_blank">Janome 725</a>.) For those who haven't a clue what this is, it is a machine which looks a bit like a sewing machine, but uses no thread. It punches the fabrics that you put under it with barbed needles, and meshes the fibres together. You can use felt, and lots of other fabrics and threads.<br />
Now I have to learn how to use it!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih_FVGQVbhp3bt3yL_jJ7INE2W65nJX-rqhH1BHt4NOTNiMs5M1a-GhQWtIg15bPmccbvtHnWPZDGi6AGxMLYVR482UgUuIKwwYNIrgT_a762_oS8I-ZPFEn3y7s60SSD_f00_Ucyby7g3/s1600/DSC04805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih_FVGQVbhp3bt3yL_jJ7INE2W65nJX-rqhH1BHt4NOTNiMs5M1a-GhQWtIg15bPmccbvtHnWPZDGi6AGxMLYVR482UgUuIKwwYNIrgT_a762_oS8I-ZPFEn3y7s60SSD_f00_Ucyby7g3/s400/DSC04805.JPG" width="325" /></a></div>
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First I played around needling some coloured wool onto a white prefelt background. Also bits of silk, and organza, and scrim. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi255MsFP4POOq3Ijs_d7bF-5inqgBF6HZ5FM7D0jXFXXiPNk53dC7A-EDEcMInatdfJzF_dubeWPJMrx0EbE7cdHl06zlwAzr3pDdAgNdNl1v6-faFr_pRN6ChyXXqxspT8Hrij4Oekkbq/s1600/DSC04806.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi255MsFP4POOq3Ijs_d7bF-5inqgBF6HZ5FM7D0jXFXXiPNk53dC7A-EDEcMInatdfJzF_dubeWPJMrx0EbE7cdHl06zlwAzr3pDdAgNdNl1v6-faFr_pRN6ChyXXqxspT8Hrij4Oekkbq/s400/DSC04806.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Some interesting effects, but it is hard to control exactly where the fabric you are adding goes, as the machine tends to pull it in tight as you needle it. I need to practice. </div>
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Then I had a go using shapes cut from leftover scraps of felt I had made. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuM8C6oXMPAGdNy6J3fI0bq-8iqKFmcL5OH-oDtfCEnvhNATTwsUmdaiYBf37JJjnowQQzxGUgLi6vcB5o0Zm7pBNIyZMo5e4C10pefxxLomH8BLbeoAXJPdMnhs6H_o1RZ9vHpqVPM77w/s1600/DSC04804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuM8C6oXMPAGdNy6J3fI0bq-8iqKFmcL5OH-oDtfCEnvhNATTwsUmdaiYBf37JJjnowQQzxGUgLi6vcB5o0Zm7pBNIyZMo5e4C10pefxxLomH8BLbeoAXJPdMnhs6H_o1RZ9vHpqVPM77w/s400/DSC04804.JPG" width="393" /></a></div>
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This was easier, as the felt pieces already have an integrity and can hold their own under the needles. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLPB8SDW5oe97qdk5dohUik1V4y7sKpPFq3Et-7nDtOGokccqrBn5hoiuGifyvwLCZ9y7QT64giRDjieCccLyTJZ6COH6NtSAozYk-fCoxFwbWLjGDf23xcrSdLqoD3xIomgCz0eUgtPOQ/s1600/DSC04807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLPB8SDW5oe97qdk5dohUik1V4y7sKpPFq3Et-7nDtOGokccqrBn5hoiuGifyvwLCZ9y7QT64giRDjieCccLyTJZ6COH6NtSAozYk-fCoxFwbWLjGDf23xcrSdLqoD3xIomgCz0eUgtPOQ/s400/DSC04807.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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It does give a slightly different effect to wet felting, and you can build a design up bit by bit, layer by layer. </div>
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The gadget queen is happy! </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-40472210091654549212016-07-07T23:35:00.001+01:002016-07-07T23:44:26.269+01:00Tea cosies and pods<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My daughter asked for a tea cosy for her new kitchen in her new flat. She likes polka dots, and a bit of glitter, She wants it finishing with a felt bobble on the top, which I still have to do. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3pWWyDD28WYFd9CEkXXHZ1ZbJjzvvjQZhWurm-_1lbN8OMB79YK9TsuH0yYdtBlG7LgB7CwFrgK37eZd1EnW6_LYiQekJOvyCTQhSsxFc6eEDtq96HcKHtmRYPkQM6W9b_kKrQRhzCn8z/s1600/IMG_1675.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="329" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3pWWyDD28WYFd9CEkXXHZ1ZbJjzvvjQZhWurm-_1lbN8OMB79YK9TsuH0yYdtBlG7LgB7CwFrgK37eZd1EnW6_LYiQekJOvyCTQhSsxFc6eEDtq96HcKHtmRYPkQM6W9b_kKrQRhzCn8z/s640/IMG_1675.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">And I thought I'd make another one for some friends we visited for the weekend. They thought it looked a bit like planets on the night sky. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYUP7ODiWRiIz7Hocp-Q0k2TLrfrJWDOIUaIqAs3bgkjBpSFKzeIpPRNejVwzHQbQ-2YZsd77aFXr6niP-wqkOm41QPhVPE6b3w3pCG0fgQAUIGpBNKiP7xRzD8UmfW4GxixGT3qDPV8VI/s1600/IMG_1671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYUP7ODiWRiIz7Hocp-Q0k2TLrfrJWDOIUaIqAs3bgkjBpSFKzeIpPRNejVwzHQbQ-2YZsd77aFXr6niP-wqkOm41QPhVPE6b3w3pCG0fgQAUIGpBNKiP7xRzD8UmfW4GxixGT3qDPV8VI/s200/IMG_1671.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo1uOrB1ZeeLCCITxRC_W43QoEMwx6bhM9ssE9-kb4dEw7rL18-7j62jfJvRtm5vaT7Ew2Nlvh0Hw40GYqdKP9DajocTlxudl-1bJYB4L-brjkG6ARd2DQxojDbgx1z9g2_8BdsnikMwsh/s1600/IMG_1672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo1uOrB1ZeeLCCITxRC_W43QoEMwx6bhM9ssE9-kb4dEw7rL18-7j62jfJvRtm5vaT7Ew2Nlvh0Hw40GYqdKP9DajocTlxudl-1bJYB4L-brjkG6ARd2DQxojDbgx1z9g2_8BdsnikMwsh/s200/IMG_1672.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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I like to finish them with a cotton lining. Felt has fantastic insulating properties, and keeps a pot of tea piping hot for ages. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih3wq63HwF6e2hkuBj21424bR3ThlIru-4VqDOR4qFoX5a16Le6Ij4RyiJz5-fsAbE_WHnF3up5oZdFFkOuux0ivSvPy-6XTiJ2Babyz8aDaPZqc0v1k4q5YP18qLmSqFsA06sJOYY04ss/s1600/IMG_1676.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih3wq63HwF6e2hkuBj21424bR3ThlIru-4VqDOR4qFoX5a16Le6Ij4RyiJz5-fsAbE_WHnF3up5oZdFFkOuux0ivSvPy-6XTiJ2Babyz8aDaPZqc0v1k4q5YP18qLmSqFsA06sJOYY04ss/s400/IMG_1676.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I had some fun making these pods.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimYoIQvUpNnKGqCivu_30eYZcGs2dOI59XiJi5HnuLUF1vZqUfxZ1MKje-mbBuXNmGck1dtOL2UbhUdQOt7q4vAZ8HxUMnVsGlhBsUx3NRQKv_Hiq81pPPIIWfi_PD73sOc3LGu7DmEr3R/s1600/IMG_1684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimYoIQvUpNnKGqCivu_30eYZcGs2dOI59XiJi5HnuLUF1vZqUfxZ1MKje-mbBuXNmGck1dtOL2UbhUdQOt7q4vAZ8HxUMnVsGlhBsUx3NRQKv_Hiq81pPPIIWfi_PD73sOc3LGu7DmEr3R/s400/IMG_1684.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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What are the for? you may ask. Isn't it obvious? Suspend them from the ceiling, and they make perfect little homes for air plants! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy7UiICSPVEGS_TMtlzub1HhCTVIJMNm7BOnn_jxT_tzxVe46klRSBLRRVgNHe_bJ8EnqfnaRc4EnQvKFaqqzWjePw3qFzQvPRpqictYQE3shsG-eqx0b2v_zJOtMR0OjD28XY_tTKq30M/s1600/2016-07-07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy7UiICSPVEGS_TMtlzub1HhCTVIJMNm7BOnn_jxT_tzxVe46klRSBLRRVgNHe_bJ8EnqfnaRc4EnQvKFaqqzWjePw3qFzQvPRpqictYQE3shsG-eqx0b2v_zJOtMR0OjD28XY_tTKq30M/s400/2016-07-07.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj011KhrSKcB0RZEvenNcxgbiBI594Pk0C70K7XK6Ger_-89_5Qo6CKrxJUirV2ysa5XwBDEIEy1epXovXZqxUjHmExJUlbjCh3EJGsrihL0JS13rP2jDnmW6daUn-RhFO2ws3GT-ubsCv5/s1600/DSC04800.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-2050766994323612972016-03-16T12:49:00.000+00:002016-03-16T12:51:27.257+00:00A few felted cards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYtLQD6YKkNa4lXXp4GqsqGNaAZfdwbfEcUg_xeXugUacttt1o6GPgP0vKq9GTdXODy5kcRwpIVNGYZhmvqLe76p6R-CNwFZORN98uIfsILNP-69kfWa35nrshYwwXKRpWQXffL1E9jGRO/s1600/DSC04680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYtLQD6YKkNa4lXXp4GqsqGNaAZfdwbfEcUg_xeXugUacttt1o6GPgP0vKq9GTdXODy5kcRwpIVNGYZhmvqLe76p6R-CNwFZORN98uIfsILNP-69kfWa35nrshYwwXKRpWQXffL1E9jGRO/s400/DSC04680.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I like sending hand made cards to friends when I can. It seems more personal, and is almost like sending a mini present. Here are a few quick ones I made recently. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNVqGing0a9feCOdlROu1F3jV3qSSSLz20VYYSHOdgE2ueLzrK5RcICtbux_c65l7iaokwLmB2l4ejZfVcYZ2_Uj9a20Dd6CQHAT_Fp2lVxb1DtkmBcFvdJehri1rqY3Ak0oW7oBlDugyM/s1600/DSC04682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNVqGing0a9feCOdlROu1F3jV3qSSSLz20VYYSHOdgE2ueLzrK5RcICtbux_c65l7iaokwLmB2l4ejZfVcYZ2_Uj9a20Dd6CQHAT_Fp2lVxb1DtkmBcFvdJehri1rqY3Ak0oW7oBlDugyM/s400/DSC04682.JPG" width="272" /></a></div>
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I little bit of burlap tucked between the sky and the green foreground adds texture and interest. A wisp or two of silk highlights the sky, and I finished with a few french knots. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja2wJBGEENmZa6j0KC-MvMdLmkONBf3VG4lVkN5DEg4rTGuyX_UDlEeeO9pXwy2Q7KZ1sKeXcVkErRNkPOsBg8WzWuxt9SgXfI6lc0lQ1lKzwyfbD5U3nztYESXjMmew5O6K5H9Bj2nKqR/s1600/DSC04683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja2wJBGEENmZa6j0KC-MvMdLmkONBf3VG4lVkN5DEg4rTGuyX_UDlEeeO9pXwy2Q7KZ1sKeXcVkErRNkPOsBg8WzWuxt9SgXfI6lc0lQ1lKzwyfbD5U3nztYESXjMmew5O6K5H9Bj2nKqR/s400/DSC04683.JPG" width="315" /></a></div>
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The sky is laid horizontally, and the grasses roughly vertically. Merino and a little silk for accents. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUeGRAJrEdZQsWP1dY0Sc2LpLKQhLskWZq1up8N9pAJZnWMHV4VSxL8UAs82MkSbMUKBSPshvt5w_PrwCxCXnwxcB1oTO6t1Zfx60eZSfQ_qGh5dnDCqYpH3-BfhacGSj0wbpht_eZwsmF/s1600/DSC04684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUeGRAJrEdZQsWP1dY0Sc2LpLKQhLskWZq1up8N9pAJZnWMHV4VSxL8UAs82MkSbMUKBSPshvt5w_PrwCxCXnwxcB1oTO6t1Zfx60eZSfQ_qGh5dnDCqYpH3-BfhacGSj0wbpht_eZwsmF/s400/DSC04684.JPG" width="276" /></a></div>
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In each case I laid the wool onto a large Clover needle felting mat, and needle felted sufficiently to hold it together, before gently wet felting. I find if I cover the mat, after shrinkage this makes a reasonable size and proportion for an A6 blank card. </div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-53838700150132128732015-11-03T12:57:00.000+00:002015-11-04T17:44:16.421+00:00Another seat cover<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I felted another seat pad for the second dining chair I had painted <a href="http://afeltdesire.blogspot.co.uk/2015/08/revamp-for-old-chair.html" target="_blank">(see previous post)</a>. I used mohair wool to draw the lines, then filled some spaces in with bright colours. A bit Mondrian style. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCENogmFlZic01YW1lBr_1r7b6hEsA6eq18nQLe0bTVPvfcCpgpZmCx-21_CVjXeBwdeHF1OFRtsuB3hQDwZPMwWwxdM40GNyXCfNa6LjEEr2pLy6T-MUq52J44Nz7Kbu8rE2pYd5UvMju/s1600/DSC04445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCENogmFlZic01YW1lBr_1r7b6hEsA6eq18nQLe0bTVPvfcCpgpZmCx-21_CVjXeBwdeHF1OFRtsuB3hQDwZPMwWwxdM40GNyXCfNa6LjEEr2pLy6T-MUq52J44Nz7Kbu8rE2pYd5UvMju/s400/DSC04445.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here it is with the first one I did. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrdXQwDjvxbF5IS3t0_krMuTRhEDnfHq5EE16BqZoPL37G4sp56gAQwhis_ah5ig0ImO3hqbp8Zb5xByIBOh2ooRX3ulERGBNF9suaRCvQn1IvBmJ6ffXtApmu4BEDmPcfsKr8dd73JXLI/s1600/DSC04444.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrdXQwDjvxbF5IS3t0_krMuTRhEDnfHq5EE16BqZoPL37G4sp56gAQwhis_ah5ig0ImO3hqbp8Zb5xByIBOh2ooRX3ulERGBNF9suaRCvQn1IvBmJ6ffXtApmu4BEDmPcfsKr8dd73JXLI/s400/DSC04444.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3Great Saxham, Bury Saint Edmunds, Suffolk IP29, UK52.234754 0.61893099999997526.712719500000002 -40.689663000000024 77.7567885 41.927524999999974tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-66631457862604465882015-10-15T16:11:00.000+01:002015-10-15T16:19:07.199+01:00Experimenting with colour and texture<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSoEystvXwBP5Ai3ng91zwFLETCDwb5xr0LO8e8RaANA6DtWjk7k-E0FN3VJEMdt0QaFKFPlUFrkO0WI_ECC-1enQjzW7i8fedWSNHxoFHvHyjDXmZLN2fSFGzct3UB8D9Y8UWhZoZ5OOY/s1600/IMG_1359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSoEystvXwBP5Ai3ng91zwFLETCDwb5xr0LO8e8RaANA6DtWjk7k-E0FN3VJEMdt0QaFKFPlUFrkO0WI_ECC-1enQjzW7i8fedWSNHxoFHvHyjDXmZLN2fSFGzct3UB8D9Y8UWhZoZ5OOY/s400/IMG_1359.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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I made this piece as a possible wall hanging. I kept the colours pale, with whites and neutrals, and added hints of pastel tones above and below the resist strips, which show where the layers are slashed open. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTgqhS-jTQeOu6T7Mzs4_44bm9qRZvB60m1tBxORoJ4GpxxsG7PaupGYE6CMUKRvMyKgLJC8JzRZdeTcLf3WVuekTFWGkoyCwY6Oc569isWwM04UQnAPGbz55RRayP87QmOwWkmSsZzqvq/s1600/IMG_1360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTgqhS-jTQeOu6T7Mzs4_44bm9qRZvB60m1tBxORoJ4GpxxsG7PaupGYE6CMUKRvMyKgLJC8JzRZdeTcLf3WVuekTFWGkoyCwY6Oc569isWwM04UQnAPGbz55RRayP87QmOwWkmSsZzqvq/s400/IMG_1360.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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The texture on the top is created with wool nepps, pieces of white scrim, curly locks, and silk hankies. </div>
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I like the restrained touches or colour in this, so that the texture is predominant. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Ws1kxMcPuIi4GGlv84kYG7Ulc18ffQA0GyqxCg4KT_yvMtTuJ4M_J5LeY-4OXEkNSwxYb5JhvRNBRdexXUv1hPTdOkEkm2GqAFSSIFolYwFIak9tCm2uuwYoJm8zSAt91buXWX_3rU2_/s1600/IMG_1364.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Ws1kxMcPuIi4GGlv84kYG7Ulc18ffQA0GyqxCg4KT_yvMtTuJ4M_J5LeY-4OXEkNSwxYb5JhvRNBRdexXUv1hPTdOkEkm2GqAFSSIFolYwFIak9tCm2uuwYoJm8zSAt91buXWX_3rU2_/s640/IMG_1364.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is similar to <a href="http://afeltdesire.blogspot.co.uk/2011/05/those-were-pearls.html" target="_blank">a piece </a>I made a while ago. I might add some embroidery and beading in the slashes, in which case I'll post another picture.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-78097698741218553662015-10-15T15:35:00.001+01:002015-10-15T15:39:59.248+01:00Slow sloe gin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The edge of our garden is a wild hedge row, and this year there are lots of sloes on the blackthorn bushes. And there is really only one thing to do with sloes, as they are toe-curlingly bitter in their raw state. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHz4ZTqT-6iH1hHM18M2WIsSaJxjbLaxbWH4HvVddj62dA7ZHR_rrtKBWiW21qVSRoGtC4EzcaXMfreXh5xTBLqmsT1KXvdGZyukH1iqagkEQUUr9LL617p4QCXPNOSGlQrMFeQcn3LmfZ/s1600/IMG_1363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHz4ZTqT-6iH1hHM18M2WIsSaJxjbLaxbWH4HvVddj62dA7ZHR_rrtKBWiW21qVSRoGtC4EzcaXMfreXh5xTBLqmsT1KXvdGZyukH1iqagkEQUUr9LL617p4QCXPNOSGlQrMFeQcn3LmfZ/s320/IMG_1363.JPG" width="304" /></a></div>
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Appare<span style="font-family: inherit;">ntly a <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 29.8999px;">superstition says the berries must be pricked with a silver needle before use. Well I used a wooden cocktail stick! </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb0dkhJmlEbWY2yYXCR9u-qHUHC336EoJqIOYHyiSBKYL6sQCUOQEDUUrQkFD8-aOXEK1luQ6M3jwNZsimJMMStNQ8y6nOwNjMNFCqbEc-1r4DDTnSnL9RlYPqzu17LpgurKzAfnkAewr3/s1600/IMG_1357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb0dkhJmlEbWY2yYXCR9u-qHUHC336EoJqIOYHyiSBKYL6sQCUOQEDUUrQkFD8-aOXEK1luQ6M3jwNZsimJMMStNQ8y6nOwNjMNFCqbEc-1r4DDTnSnL9RlYPqzu17LpgurKzAfnkAewr3/s400/IMG_1357.JPG" width="331" /></a></div>
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Here they are with the addition of sugar and gin, in sterilised jars. The recipe I used calls for 450gm sloes, 225gm caster sugar, and 1ltr of gin. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1sRGpmghJj4NUKaU4NaSjaJf6BHAASSGEx-QvfLcoiAzl_7CYgNDetATsNFJbTuVnAvOJW-oC81iMO7YiS0yUK6W5XLw57LNKevE6SZMiCtFhIL0IDIQxBWuzvSgY47E44rLB8gaua3F/s1600/IMG_1358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1sRGpmghJj4NUKaU4NaSjaJf6BHAASSGEx-QvfLcoiAzl_7CYgNDetATsNFJbTuVnAvOJW-oC81iMO7YiS0yUK6W5XLw57LNKevE6SZMiCtFhIL0IDIQxBWuzvSgY47E44rLB8gaua3F/s400/IMG_1358.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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We should shake the bottles every couple of days for a fortnight, then every week. By Christmas it should be ready, and we can strain the liquid through muslin into bottles. The longer you keep it the better it gets. </div>
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I'll post a picture of the finished product! </div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-49984387614523927552015-08-24T14:16:00.000+01:002015-11-03T13:04:10.373+00:00Revamp for an old chair<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A couple of these rather unpreposessing chairs seem to have been knocking around our house for ever, always on the verge of being thrown out, but kept "just in case" for times when we needed extra seating. As 1940s utility furniture, they are still sturdy, and had been revarnished multiple times by my mother-in-law. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxL3Gx1z8TnMOJtkuPWqgC-5VBUd7bi0LihOSBekfK5chmSEf1tWXz8GriYcCWgmh_o7VZfg46XJ0HLnUUPXEOifHeS6p_GzX5LrfmwF-j22vneW3P9CtAoA7c0GjD-DIvRwMrqlaBd5M5/s1600/IMG_1153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxL3Gx1z8TnMOJtkuPWqgC-5VBUd7bi0LihOSBekfK5chmSEf1tWXz8GriYcCWgmh_o7VZfg46XJ0HLnUUPXEOifHeS6p_GzX5LrfmwF-j22vneW3P9CtAoA7c0GjD-DIvRwMrqlaBd5M5/s400/IMG_1153.JPG" width="252" /></a></div>
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I gave them a coat of Annie Sloane chalk paint in Duck Egg Blue, softened with a bit of Old White. Then, after a touch of distressing, finished with a coat of clear wax and a good polish. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYLOIj9Ur0bWybJGKb4x4LTaCDS6lCsDZ3QJhXcYohIkJWHhJerrx2d_mQQlwkRn2Y_wSHafy8hUobJvRBzxPyQ_J-Y7bQF20J_zwOQYswG30Td4DF4d-YNZbinszGwCqTLjG7rlOMcJID/s1600/DSC04142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYLOIj9Ur0bWybJGKb4x4LTaCDS6lCsDZ3QJhXcYohIkJWHhJerrx2d_mQQlwkRn2Y_wSHafy8hUobJvRBzxPyQ_J-Y7bQF20J_zwOQYswG30Td4DF4d-YNZbinszGwCqTLjG7rlOMcJID/s400/DSC04142.JPG" width="315" /></a></div>
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I made a piece of thickish felt decorated with bright spots to cover the seat pad. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAci8fhmZmNxLUWhYJRzVuGGYZIHuoZo0zlILFkiVR6sI0jeaRmjkQGIkht0ige3cUXcBCylGRCrHF1AcVsifzcQMmC_EypQSlmKeXNM0TjP-6qSOxds2bHudw-wQMgrse9L3nA6ytIRwr/s1600/DSC04146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAci8fhmZmNxLUWhYJRzVuGGYZIHuoZo0zlILFkiVR6sI0jeaRmjkQGIkht0ige3cUXcBCylGRCrHF1AcVsifzcQMmC_EypQSlmKeXNM0TjP-6qSOxds2bHudw-wQMgrse9L3nA6ytIRwr/s400/DSC04146.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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And here it is, brightening a darkish corner under the stairs. A reprieve, and a reincarnation! </div>
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(And you can see the second chair with cover<a href="http://afeltdesire.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/another-seat-cover.html" target="_blank"> here</a>.)</div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-55801710775486367132015-06-16T15:56:00.001+01:002015-06-16T22:38:28.440+01:00A twiggy lampshade<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I found an old children's lamp on a fleamarket in France a while ago, and after removing the original embroidered cotton shade, was left with a simple box shaped frame. I decided to make 4 panels of felt to cover it, rather than a long piece to wrap round, as I was concerned about keeping it straight. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsvzfOsv64yuUVoD6_vgI4fz3hgxGI5lcnqLo4m1lwt87hv5xV0QU-wOpShkAHeNBS6Ez9doIv8XJT7kbu41RUIi_u_mA5VHxgOuQ57NNpsDm2CGkT8oBUu23ASE1D9FFG8UCfeeMriTAW/s1600/DSC04061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsvzfOsv64yuUVoD6_vgI4fz3hgxGI5lcnqLo4m1lwt87hv5xV0QU-wOpShkAHeNBS6Ez9doIv8XJT7kbu41RUIi_u_mA5VHxgOuQ57NNpsDm2CGkT8oBUu23ASE1D9FFG8UCfeeMriTAW/s320/DSC04061.JPG" width="291" /></a></div>
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The panels are made of just two fairly thin layers of natural cream merino, to keep it translucent. Between the 2 layers I sandwiched some thin birch twigs from the garden. I added a few natural wool curly locks as a final decoration. I felted this gently, with just a little fulling, until the panels were firm and strong enough. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw74WkrNAAHQ1pml2_mKGSlsH3mIRRKUI4j2tzh_ZZeEloH-ouVyZN-zdmza4hjcnminN-nSclBKdaqmirnKq9JHIQ-io1uXSGd4JEflVmHMYCbITl65UTD0ukCjiLzEqdPYdmGjeoywtg/s1600/DSC04064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw74WkrNAAHQ1pml2_mKGSlsH3mIRRKUI4j2tzh_ZZeEloH-ouVyZN-zdmza4hjcnminN-nSclBKdaqmirnKq9JHIQ-io1uXSGd4JEflVmHMYCbITl65UTD0ukCjiLzEqdPYdmGjeoywtg/s320/DSC04064.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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After drying, I stitched the panels onto the frame using invisible nylon thread. Much the worst part - I hate sewing with this stuff as it constantly slips out of the needle! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqxJYNqWwyWBpu5IAjLzi96CujMfFDrZbchDsUenOlmgRwl5ldCOYwjRIKYq2mc1P_4ii-T4jI6LWVzHqSYHxu-5PRQjndkaISE4iAb0aW3yDE40Tg3bJmPD3Dq45F-pRbYWXGzu01mNI2/s1600/DSC04065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqxJYNqWwyWBpu5IAjLzi96CujMfFDrZbchDsUenOlmgRwl5ldCOYwjRIKYq2mc1P_4ii-T4jI6LWVzHqSYHxu-5PRQjndkaISE4iAb0aW3yDE40Tg3bJmPD3Dq45F-pRbYWXGzu01mNI2/s320/DSC04065.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I like the delicate natural, translucent quality of the shade, and it looks particularly good when lit up. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixzX5WMi_-y79z_dw12eP002sk5O9N1Y9A5xtCQTUA5M6d417YoAtfrPk89tHbbz0Ew_wSF9V5sfUgXx_veQAQiAOIqal-t7ZY3abwW6qjVCWChgailBw16leU5Dc6jiVeX-ysKqX4S4ce/s1600/DSC04066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixzX5WMi_-y79z_dw12eP002sk5O9N1Y9A5xtCQTUA5M6d417YoAtfrPk89tHbbz0Ew_wSF9V5sfUgXx_veQAQiAOIqal-t7ZY3abwW6qjVCWChgailBw16leU5Dc6jiVeX-ysKqX4S4ce/s320/DSC04066.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Sometimes I think that the best felt is in natural colours, with natural found objects incorporated. A memory perhaps of when it was on the back of a sheep, with twigs caught in it! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7FONjJ4YHGQ25twF707e3kaVmbFD_Yd0xAOC2zO0e2qji8WNaOY25sq4YMo_fq4R4oGOMhOo4MqO9vGSyRSsk7Nc6YoiaqNCbXz3naRmVOpjMN3Drir2ZjbphQm8v4CgpnQ6t5boEveoZ/s1600/DSC04067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7FONjJ4YHGQ25twF707e3kaVmbFD_Yd0xAOC2zO0e2qji8WNaOY25sq4YMo_fq4R4oGOMhOo4MqO9vGSyRSsk7Nc6YoiaqNCbXz3naRmVOpjMN3Drir2ZjbphQm8v4CgpnQ6t5boEveoZ/s320/DSC04067.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4Great Saxham, Bury Saint Edmunds, Suffolk IP29, UK52.234754 0.61893099999997526.712719500000002 -40.689663000000024 77.7567885 41.927524999999974tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-1909008063622589692015-06-04T13:04:00.001+01:002015-06-04T13:48:59.165+01:00Bird Box card<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I like making my own cards, and find simple naif designs with scraps of fabric and free motion stitching quite satisfying to make. My daugter has just moved into a new flat, and this is what I've made. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18sO5VRGMf9fFBoHvhR_1OzG4tM723e3MZXVPitjye0qStFbZYJAHcW6xWtRmuwQuTaAK_frbZJXdcyGPbteQ6BjR5GoJL__-0EUuypDnALK8ZiBoORqKX7xYzZRv3a8z7qnHrKWlfLCi/s1600/New+home+card.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18sO5VRGMf9fFBoHvhR_1OzG4tM723e3MZXVPitjye0qStFbZYJAHcW6xWtRmuwQuTaAK_frbZJXdcyGPbteQ6BjR5GoJL__-0EUuypDnALK8ZiBoORqKX7xYzZRv3a8z7qnHrKWlfLCi/s320/New+home+card.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I used some blackout curtain lining fabric as the background as it is solid enough to stitch on without a hoop. I'm not very good at controlling the stitching, but I say that the imperfections just add to the charm! </div>
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I use a Pilot Frixion pen to draw on the designs, then just use a warm iron to remove the marks. I know there is some debate about whether the marks really disappear, but it is quick and fine for a project like this. </div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Great Saxham, Suffolk 52.234948815058289 0.6234741210937552.196049815058288 0.54279312109375 52.273847815058289 0.70415512109375tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-82118397497454404632015-05-24T22:12:00.000+01:002015-05-26T12:40:01.492+01:00Bowls of colour<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am making a few small objects to sell for charity at our village fete next month. Here are 3 felt bowls. Useful for holding bits and bobs, and I love the way they hold their pod like shape, yet are so light. I made them with different bright colours on the inside, and a mid grey wool on the outside, Again, I followed the great <a href="http://rosiepink.typepad.co.uk/rosiepink/tutorial-how-to-make-a-wet-felted-pod.html">tutorial</a> from <a href="http://rosiepink.typepad.co.uk/rosiepink/">Rosiepink</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHsu0RhP5vbrn-As-VKk5hK5juX3AsobPFen2HnMoNPvE2me57Z5YqMJuBZZGVhByRni18eemYmP4LRvG8IyB1PH_aTvJ_Mm4xo1cGXt4-zeiHWYK5ILzeeJ9Bac0AvAiign6HhD0ftO6l/s1600/DSC04009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHsu0RhP5vbrn-As-VKk5hK5juX3AsobPFen2HnMoNPvE2me57Z5YqMJuBZZGVhByRni18eemYmP4LRvG8IyB1PH_aTvJ_Mm4xo1cGXt4-zeiHWYK5ILzeeJ9Bac0AvAiign6HhD0ftO6l/s400/DSC04009.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I like the way the bright colour fibres have worked through the grey and give a haze of the inner colour on the outside. I did incorporate circular resists in them all, but this only really worked on the yellow bowl. On the others they ended up in the wrong places, so I did not cut them out - that's their little secret! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKR8wVb69nEekNIQF5_lnIEIvfM4jLJ5L5ePA6RvLnNsap-C4XwxUYZTvQmdhTzCzioPibOAjFOUdxpCsV_G9wAKWbuFHWy-GHGMAK-O2xCVq5uWmaKxUlhel8oEYTNxKf9W4iMWYzF8fH/s1600/DSC04014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKR8wVb69nEekNIQF5_lnIEIvfM4jLJ5L5ePA6RvLnNsap-C4XwxUYZTvQmdhTzCzioPibOAjFOUdxpCsV_G9wAKWbuFHWy-GHGMAK-O2xCVq5uWmaKxUlhel8oEYTNxKf9W4iMWYzF8fH/s400/DSC04014.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I added some simple running stitch.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8dzkrITyIfpnZeFLX-LAAg5O7fFJPZv-KZ1pQjJkxAT80w_sb3HjFiSxAgs9xKbvZ0FXVcR3V_5VfvqOP9Bie1TQFJjm2cIncLQY4Z6R_Ei-TeuxbWznEEo_pTy8h07zX4YleRiqn8Z9G/s1600/DSC04017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8dzkrITyIfpnZeFLX-LAAg5O7fFJPZv-KZ1pQjJkxAT80w_sb3HjFiSxAgs9xKbvZ0FXVcR3V_5VfvqOP9Bie1TQFJjm2cIncLQY4Z6R_Ei-TeuxbWznEEo_pTy8h07zX4YleRiqn8Z9G/s400/DSC04017.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Talking of colour, just look at these amazing irises that we saw at Helmingham Hall today! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8gzr4OdghnDeGZPM79U4GYu33vPvkgW7oRlg9-6iPRT0jtJnOduXzeTxW6bWIaqFNCmK0BBrO1Psdcx7QFIrre1EoxbOD9gmV9IRvNXwNx85k8OjDmQ01PM2zQC5YpW8qNhjWiBLPaW7Y/s1600/DSC04008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8gzr4OdghnDeGZPM79U4GYu33vPvkgW7oRlg9-6iPRT0jtJnOduXzeTxW6bWIaqFNCmK0BBrO1Psdcx7QFIrre1EoxbOD9gmV9IRvNXwNx85k8OjDmQ01PM2zQC5YpW8qNhjWiBLPaW7Y/s400/DSC04008.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Great Saxham, Bury Saint Edmunds, Suffolk IP29, UK52.234754 0.61893099999997526.712719500000002 -40.689663000000024 77.7567885 41.927524999999974tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-34288800465956476712015-05-20T22:08:00.000+01:002015-05-20T22:12:55.753+01:00I am back again...at lastIt has been a very long time since I posted anything. We have moved from Belgium to England, to Suffolk, and spent a year working on our old barn. This has included building an extension, and in the roof space of this I have a beautiful room to use as a studio! What a lucky girl I am.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGGyOlzxZz5gjm7hrxDYWGG-xlCZNK2HPfZOcwOSNa_V8mkwPv4MVklarSj09n2eAx0L-ClLx8Or2054E9neoaang4Tqezl2cnvDOQpqaWhnv1_6uT8jLvGJlS3W18TbveOh8QEvwwnotf/s1600/IMG_0884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGGyOlzxZz5gjm7hrxDYWGG-xlCZNK2HPfZOcwOSNa_V8mkwPv4MVklarSj09n2eAx0L-ClLx8Or2054E9neoaang4Tqezl2cnvDOQpqaWhnv1_6uT8jLvGJlS3W18TbveOh8QEvwwnotf/s320/IMG_0884.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUDRg8PeGwCSr_gIsEaBEHITeOtYTJ7dsJ47YyDQDMgirOchijfqWVq92fO34zCWPS40e1EgqJOZfpkBi6MUwm3dvFLin2SgWa36O4z3UvE0oynSf2jB7gG6hlR_DOEOBNty2HVxe3xblo/s1600/IMG_0883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUDRg8PeGwCSr_gIsEaBEHITeOtYTJ7dsJ47YyDQDMgirOchijfqWVq92fO34zCWPS40e1EgqJOZfpkBi6MUwm3dvFLin2SgWa36O4z3UvE0oynSf2jB7gG6hlR_DOEOBNty2HVxe3xblo/s320/IMG_0883.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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All this space is so intimidating! I have not done much yet - just a few little pieces of felt, machine embroidered with seedheads, to make into cards. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT2PW8EwA-7SEsMeMBUsMfo9F_Uyj6QYq8RbHwRoJEfLOKoL5LdvbKgkTB-M6Ypp6dZ5CJXLORfWT9BWZzw7zUSgMDldcA3_r-r-7hAHagZv1Kv78P663Ih1_Dq688vG91k6CybB1qySnX/s1600/IMG_1112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT2PW8EwA-7SEsMeMBUsMfo9F_Uyj6QYq8RbHwRoJEfLOKoL5LdvbKgkTB-M6Ypp6dZ5CJXLORfWT9BWZzw7zUSgMDldcA3_r-r-7hAHagZv1Kv78P663Ih1_Dq688vG91k6CybB1qySnX/s320/IMG_1112.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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What I really need now is a course to follow, to give me some development, techniques, challenges and discipline. If anyone knows of anything in the Suffolk area, or even on-line, please let me know, </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-55319427131411716012013-10-11T23:04:00.000+01:002013-10-11T23:06:43.723+01:00I am still here...Apologies to everyone (anyone??) who has been waiting with baited breath for a new post from me! Well, life has rather overtaken felting during the last months. We are in the slow process of moving from Belgium back to the UK after a very long time away - we first arrived in Brussels in 1981! We packed up our home here in May, and are leading a nomadic existence while we renovate a 400 year old barn in Suffolk.<br />
And maybe - just maybe - the renovations will include a studio for me where I can make felt to my hearts content!<br />
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Meanwhile, my wool is all packed up in boxes.<br />
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So here are a few pictures of an exhibition in Cahors, (SW France) this summer by the artist Odon. Huge cobweb structures made from intricately plaited and woven paper, which is first hand made and dyed.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-60610314253145217472013-02-02T15:57:00.002+00:002013-02-02T23:02:19.979+00:00The Egg-Bag (part 1)I haven't done any felting for ages! And it was hard to decide what to make to break the felting fast. How about an egg?<br />
I have been wanting to try a one piece handbag with an integrated handle, so here goes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhohrPaabrhyacTx57ZzAX9ZNfH1KBBl82ys1emJ-xXu2_fd2DmVACaoQ-5vt0L1xQrjlax0xGtrn-A89Akbk1NdyR9h3ip7kmrtkkVejCgeQL6Im08bosoAdxJVVzii9VDhYUiAszrYW7I/s1600/DSC_0206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhohrPaabrhyacTx57ZzAX9ZNfH1KBBl82ys1emJ-xXu2_fd2DmVACaoQ-5vt0L1xQrjlax0xGtrn-A89Akbk1NdyR9h3ip7kmrtkkVejCgeQL6Im08bosoAdxJVVzii9VDhYUiAszrYW7I/s400/DSC_0206.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I used 3 layers of merino wool around an egg shaped resist with a slightly flattened bottom.<br />
To make the felt very strong, I incorporated a layer of cotton scrim between the top 2 layers of wool. I'm not sure if this has made very much difference, but I had some purple dyed scrim.<br />
I carefully felted and fulled the piece using a bamboo blind and cool water with savon de marseille. In this picture it is lying on the resist, so you can see how much it has shrunk.<br />
I also added small pieces of silk in a random way as surface decoration, but they have all but disappeared into the felt.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbaDcxhjNdaaxeO4V9gbB2pgbAEun2kLTMkBIJvDLCyC4WeOpVbPfS6o5n87S17JS3joHi2LgYf_SeFqWAqLQKsjuXEACtV068NVtfpV2Ij8MIWcRDhS2mz1Juq1afxGCtucrQfrxLEyzB/s1600/DSC_0207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbaDcxhjNdaaxeO4V9gbB2pgbAEun2kLTMkBIJvDLCyC4WeOpVbPfS6o5n87S17JS3joHi2LgYf_SeFqWAqLQKsjuXEACtV068NVtfpV2Ij8MIWcRDhS2mz1Juq1afxGCtucrQfrxLEyzB/s400/DSC_0207.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
It is still damp, and I have cut a curved line to remove the resist and form the handle and flap.<br />
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And the same on the other side.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-CE5LAJN3yf0r20rnLWS3xEnu1KyYuYxNmtRnGXTvRy5loQV3_SCV417apfPMtKTVXxQlfZN_0-kMNT72d5C9fv4hkrn6ivJMxQPJa2OJ5YVEXO6YAl2pmdTNn5dbCKkC7VBJEQuE8tKo/s1600/DSC_0211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-CE5LAJN3yf0r20rnLWS3xEnu1KyYuYxNmtRnGXTvRy5loQV3_SCV417apfPMtKTVXxQlfZN_0-kMNT72d5C9fv4hkrn6ivJMxQPJa2OJ5YVEXO6YAl2pmdTNn5dbCKkC7VBJEQuE8tKo/s400/DSC_0211.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here it is stuffed with plastic bags and drying. I am feeling very pleased with the shape. </div>
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I am planning to put some thick cord into the handle, and stitch the edges together, so that it holds its shape even with some weight in the bag. </div>
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How should I decorate it to finish it off? - any ideas welcome! </div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2Nethen, Grez-Doiceau, Belgium50.7840163768127 4.675199601318354350.7739768768127 4.6550296013183541 50.7940558768127 4.6953696013183546tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-42616187648894165302012-12-04T08:31:00.001+00:002012-12-04T08:31:32.883+00:00Advent<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I spotted this delightful knitted nativity in a bakery shop window on Sunday in Monschau, which is just near the German Belgian border. </div>
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It had snowed, and the Christmas market was enchanting.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-76235535134446478982012-11-19T12:35:00.001+00:002013-02-03T19:20:46.589+00:00From little acorns . . . <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have some great oak trees near me, which produced lots of acorns this autumn. I've seen that several people make charming felted acorns using the real "caps" but replacing the acorn with an elongated felt bead. I discovered a fool-proof way of making felt beads in issue 7 of the wonderful Australian<a href="http://www.artwearpublications.com.au/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=2&zenid=8sj0o5nlbgddkj1rq5cuqhqtc1"> Felt Magazine</a>. You put the wool into a small container, add water and soap, close it up and shake vigorously. Then remove the loose ball of felt that has formed, and roll between your palms under running water gently at first and applying more pressure until it's a tightly felted ball. Rinse, squeeze out excess water, and roll in one direction to elongate a bit for acorns before drying. I used a glue gun to attach them into the (cleaned) acorn caps. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjebcodD357RP9WiugfDEukSe85YwuObiOwUawZOmZQqit4k_bQG-PBEx0wb3NnU6El-D2D1s2n6SWwY_UiyEia1BA_MCA-OEe7_0nj-Nu6r_VYGS8C5uaJbouyZMAJlbcrlkYCcE2MRzro/s1600/DSC02845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjebcodD357RP9WiugfDEukSe85YwuObiOwUawZOmZQqit4k_bQG-PBEx0wb3NnU6El-D2D1s2n6SWwY_UiyEia1BA_MCA-OEe7_0nj-Nu6r_VYGS8C5uaJbouyZMAJlbcrlkYCcE2MRzro/s400/DSC02845.JPG" width="378" /></a></div>
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I wanted to give these as small gift to my special friend Dawn who likes all things autumnal. But what to put them in? A little felt pot of course! I followed this<a href="http://rosiepink.typepad.co.uk/rosiepink/felting-tutorial-how-to-make-a-wet-felted-pod-vessel-using-a-resist.html"> great tutorial</a> from Annie and Lyn. I used yellow felt on the inside and green on the outside, with little wisps of silk to decorate. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBGOIZCFCkcdMCYdWFdl760eeqO5NIFWWYA-mxXKXDqLZK_cOAW0WU03EOxgEnAjz0E4HfT_KPSq7jOF6WioWBwgEHnnyv26dYKnYVz2jpTRaCbWLehiMeJ8AjeBmSXsb4hSvVB0ijH79N/s1600/DSC02853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBGOIZCFCkcdMCYdWFdl760eeqO5NIFWWYA-mxXKXDqLZK_cOAW0WU03EOxgEnAjz0E4HfT_KPSq7jOF6WioWBwgEHnnyv26dYKnYVz2jpTRaCbWLehiMeJ8AjeBmSXsb4hSvVB0ijH79N/s400/DSC02853.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here's the gift feeling at home among some other seasonal objects on my friend's table.</div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7575189700855958324.post-43130059927280585192012-10-30T20:33:00.000+00:002012-11-01T15:38:21.957+00:00Shibori<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Shibori is a Japanese technique, often used in dying textiles, which involves twisting, stitching and tying fabric so that the dye creates interesting patterns. In felt making it can be used to create interesting textures too, using the capacity of wet felt to mould and form permanent shapes as it dries. </div>
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If that makes me sound as if I know what I'm doing, don't be fooled - this is my first experiment.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnmjdPTc-tyXiBBdaBbSU0yZn_EVuy27R8mRIiJ9H-BNEpsew91GX0m2X5uRqvy_EmPHor9ExOva8U2jdY1XofUQe2hEZM_RQL7fO_9e88ldnoKLisXDtrj-qMPbq5SvTg25_eJ0uciy-s/s1600/DSC02829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnmjdPTc-tyXiBBdaBbSU0yZn_EVuy27R8mRIiJ9H-BNEpsew91GX0m2X5uRqvy_EmPHor9ExOva8U2jdY1XofUQe2hEZM_RQL7fO_9e88ldnoKLisXDtrj-qMPbq5SvTg25_eJ0uciy-s/s400/DSC02829.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I made a roughly circular piece of felt layering <span style="text-align: center;">different colours and finishing with some black in the centre, then some silk strands to add some shine. While still wet, I pushed some wooden beads into the back of the felt and used elastic bands to secure them in place. When the felt was completely dry, I removed the bands, popped out the beads, and found that the felt retained its "bubbles" where the beads had been, leaving the excess felt around the border prettily ruched up. I snipped some of the bubbles open so that the coloured layers were revealed. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP9AlPwNXkz0tsIxgJujgYLTAk_SSOZnsjIchChcR7elsgTq1s5Kv__F22cxr1Vp7cNFl2Vn9oxBRJERlbKN8zs7poD4v-9el8IDN_9dUdbTBAsz1VkKkjiN8Y8MM01_6zhUn6Sof7ZW71/s1600/DSC02831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP9AlPwNXkz0tsIxgJujgYLTAk_SSOZnsjIchChcR7elsgTq1s5Kv__F22cxr1Vp7cNFl2Vn9oxBRJERlbKN8zs7poD4v-9el8IDN_9dUdbTBAsz1VkKkjiN8Y8MM01_6zhUn6Sof7ZW71/s400/DSC02831.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I tried this on three smaller pieces, as I thought they might make flower brooches. They are quite thin - almost transparent, at the edges, and thicker in the middle. I might add some beads in between the "bubbles". </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4G2ygFqDfKB191BvS9mZ5og5BIHtgINb9Q36ycfOhHru4NpaBRnqBRtGBzWqnV1AcCGttqAmuB8Kt60W1atgaU78WczycYwT_aI9JAMbQ-m_pxc664oKOaOKTMsFidflgCmt8kwLGW-C/s1600/Felt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4G2ygFqDfKB191BvS9mZ5og5BIHtgINb9Q36ycfOhHru4NpaBRnqBRtGBzWqnV1AcCGttqAmuB8Kt60W1atgaU78WczycYwT_aI9JAMbQ-m_pxc664oKOaOKTMsFidflgCmt8kwLGW-C/s400/Felt.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A close up view of the bubbles</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimC8VgaGKuPUrhDHF05SdL8YN6CnDq3_mdyCIpvvFdNu14ajc-0YWCyNXSvhPm-B-5Hj85mAH4yzC_wj0qKKsTd4gvYvaFf1oM6ARDO9M1K55H9j_6OKthBrfHJJDUD7gvMBID7qRU7dZi/s1600/Collages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimC8VgaGKuPUrhDHF05SdL8YN6CnDq3_mdyCIpvvFdNu14ajc-0YWCyNXSvhPm-B-5Hj85mAH4yzC_wj0qKKsTd4gvYvaFf1oM6ARDO9M1K55H9j_6OKthBrfHJJDUD7gvMBID7qRU7dZi/s400/Collages.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And the back view - you can see the spaces where the beads were.</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Place de Trementines, 1390 Grez-Doiceau, Belgium50.784341972058712 4.6744251251220750.779322472058709 4.66455462512207 50.789361472058715 4.68429562512207